WHO says in close contact with UK officials on new COVID-19 virus variant

>> Reuters

Published: 20 Dec 2020 01:17 PM BdST Updated: 20 Dec 2020 01:17 PM BdST

A British government health information advertisement highlighting new restrictions amid the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is seen in London, Britain, December 19, 2020. REUTERS

The World Health Organization said on Saturday it was in close contact with UK officials over a new COVID-19 virus variant.

"They'll (UK officials) continue to share info & results of their analysis & ongoing studies. We'll update Member States & public as we learn more about the characteristics of this virus variant & any implications", WHO said in a tweet.

A new strain of coronavirus identified in the United Kingdom is up to 70% more infectious but it is not thought to be more deadly and vaccines should still be effective, Prime Minister Boris Johnson and scientists said on Saturday.